Unexpected vaginal bleeding can be a cause for concern for women at any stage of their life. Bleeding while not in the middle of a menstrual cycle or excessive bleeding during a menstrual cycle needs medical attention. First the cause of vaginal bleeding needs to be determined in order to stop it. Some women suffer from very heavy bleeding during their monthly periods. This may be due to a known medical condition called menorrhagia. If you are not in the middle of your cycle and start bleeding enough to fill a pad daily you may be suffering from dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Depending on your age and personal medical data there are different reasons for dysfunctional uterine bleeding. This type of bleeding can occur due to ovulation or when the egg is being released from the ovary. It can also occur when there is no egg being produced during an ovulation cycle. When the egg is not produced during an ovulation cycle, the uterus walls may get abnormally enlarged or thick and may cause delayed but excessive bleeding during the cycle. Vaginal bleeding may also occur when the fertilized egg ‘implants’ itself in the uterus wall. This type of bleeding is called implantation bleeding and should be categorized by light to heavy spotting which occurs apart from normal menstrual bleeding.
Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is also a common factor. This of course, should be reported to your gynecologist immediately. Bleeding during the first trimester is not considered alarming. Bleeding in the second trimester may be a cause for concern. But in any case, please call your doctor immediately, even if you notice a slight smudge. Another cause for vaginal bleeding is when the fertilized egg implants itself in a place other than the uterus wall; this may be called an ectopic pregnancy. Miscarriages are also a cause for vaginal bleeding. Other causes for abnormal vaginal bleeding may be menopause. The body is going through various hormonal changes during this period which may lead to vaginal bleeding. Cancer of the cervix, uterus or ovaries may also cause vaginal bleeding. Sometimes the walls of your vagina may be dry and this may lead to bleeding after sexual intercourse. After an intra uterus scan you may experience some vaginal bleeding. In any event if you feel that you are uncomfortable or if you feel you are experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding you should consult with your doctor. If you ignore this, it could lead to serious complications.